The Leadership Signature Program (LSP)
The Leadership Signature Program (LSP) is an undergraduate certificate program at Clemson that combines classroom learning with hands-on leadership experience. Over five semesters, I progressed from learning about leadership to putting it into practice through real roles across HR, operations, marketing, branding, and team leadership. Along the way, I learned a lot about how I lead, how I work with others, and how I can make an impact. Here are a few experiences that shaped me most.
My Team as CMO!
Microsoft Teams Transition
Semester 2
I learned quickly that meaningful change often starts with small, intentional steps. During my second semester in LSP, I returned as an HR leader and helped our organization transition from Google Workspace to Microsoft Teams. Working alongside Operations, I helped develop the transition plan, communicate revisions, and adapt our approach to align with our future vision. By my fourth semester, the organization had fully transitioned. I learned that making an impact isn't always about being the leader. Sometimes, it’s about being a good teammate, adapting when things change, and doing your part to move the team forward.
Social Media Rebranding and Creation of Branding Guidelines
Semester 4
I saw a problem and knew I needed to make a change. After semesters of seeing “the same,” I went out of my way to become our Social Media Manager and take a fresh look at how we showed up online. I used our previous performance data to understand what wasn’t working, then developed and executed a new content and brand strategy across Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
And it worked. Instagram views increased 361%+, accounts reached increased 185%+, and profile activity increased 393%+ compared to previous semesters. I didn’t just make a change. I tracked the results, learned from the data, and kept optimizing along the way. Additionally, from this success, I created a Branding Guidelines document to keep future semesters on track.
I saw an opportunity, took action, and turned it into a measurable impact. Look at us now!
Chief Marketing Officer
Semester 5
As Chief Marketing Officer, I managed four department leaders, a deputy, and 12+ team members. My biggest focus wasn't just getting the work done. It was building a team that cared about the work and the story we were telling.
I learned that good leadership starts with relationships. I mentored team members, worked across departments, and encouraged my team to use storytelling to strengthen our brand and community. I also made sure I was willing to jump in wherever I was needed, from helping create and edit our company video to developing new recruitment criteria.
And it worked. Our division ranked #1 out of 5, with 68.75% of department deliverables completed ahead of schedule while maintaining quality and strengthening our brand presence.
My favorite part of the role was realizing that I didn't have to choose between being a leader and being a teammate. I could be both!